20 March 2017

Melatonin vs Valerian Root: the two top natural sleep supplements

Melatonin and valerian root are two of the most popular and best natural sleep aids. One is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body, while the other is a natural herbal supplement.

Valerian root sleep supplements (or valerian extract) are derived from the root of the valerian plant. This natural substance features more than 100 different compounds that have been shown to calm your nerves and help you fall asleep faster for a better night’s rest. It is one of the oldest natural sleep remedies.

Valerian root can be found in several forms, giving you many options for how to incorporate it into your daily routine. You can find it as a dry powdered extract in capsule or tablet form, as an herbal tea or a fluid extract. Many people report that it takes a week or two of regular use before they experience a noticeable increase in sleep quality, so give valerian root a chance to work by taking it regularly for up to two weeks.

On the other hand, melatonin is a natural hormone produced in your brain by your pineal gland. It is the hormone that helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm. At dusk, when natural sunlight starts to diminish, the pineal gland begins to release melatonin, a signal to the rest of your body that it’s time to get ready to wind down for sleep. 

The problem with melatonin is that your body slowly starts to decrease its natural production during middle age (around 40). This may be one reason why older adults sometimes find it harder to fall asleep or get the same amount of sleep they used to get in their younger years. Unfortunately, your body still needs its rest, no matter your age, so many have turned to melatonin supplements to supplement their body’s natural melatonin production to help them fall and stay asleep.

Melatonin supplements come in several dosages, all designed for specific sleep struggles and tolerances. The general rule most health professionals stick to is to start low and adjust based on how your body responds. For most adults, a low dose of 1 to 3 mg will suffice.

Melatonin and valerian root can be taken together to target sleepless nights with a one-two punch of natural support. In fact, there are many sleep combination formulas that include both substances at proper dosages to complement one another. While valerian root may help you fall asleep faster, melatonin will help you stay asleep longer. Both have been shown to help improve overall sleep quality.

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